[Frag Hag]

Does anyone have any ideas for stabilizing submersible pumps with suction cups that refuse to adhere for any length of time?

I have a JBJ submersible pump and have to re-apply the damn thing to the back wall several times a day. I'm sure the corals are enjoying the shifting pattern of currents, but frankly, I'm getting tired of messing with it.

I think I read that someone glued the pump to a cleaning magnet, but I'm wondering if the magnet would cause problems with the pump eventually.

Shay
(who is eyeing the duct tape as she posts this)

[Reefland]

Unfortunately it is a never ending battle. Cleaning the suction cups thoroughly and often is your best bet if you cannot find another way to secure the pump.

[charlie]

I think the magnet idea works, but like you, I haven't heard of any long term problems with the pump itself. I guess the only way to find out would be to try it.

[Steven Pro]

All suction cups stink.

I know Tunze has a magnt bracket available for their pumps and that new (and I believe still unavailable) Vortech unit will use magnets.

[Reefland]

That Vortech unit looks real promising. zhenya gave us a picture preview from MACNA '05.

[Frag Hag]

What about velcro?

That would allow the pump to be removed for cleaning.

[Reefland]

I don't think you'll get the velcro to stick to the tank walls or the pump with the underwater environment?

[Randy]

I have had the same problem until I took a small strip of acrylic and made a hanger. I just heated it using a small torch, bent it to shape, and used zip ties to secure the pump. Now that sucker doesn't budge at all and hangs nicely in the tank.

When I was at Lowes I saw some plumbing hangers that could work as long as you don’t mind seeing the hanger. They are constructed of white PVC I believe. They’re not too bulky or anything.

If your power head needs to be deep within the tank it may require a big hanger and may be out of the question.

[icemark]

If you need moveable then your best bet is to just attach (Epoxy/ABS cement/Etc) the powerhead onto a glass cleaning magnet (usually around $10-$12 for the bargin ones on ebay).

Then you can move it around anywhere you want as long as it is near the glass.

[Frag Hag]

Thank you for the suggestions!

At present, the pump is hanging by its cord on the side of my tank. The *@!# suction cups were removed and hurled across the room last night at about 10:15.

[Randy]

In my previous post I spoke of "heat shaping" acrylic. This is even easier ~ I just found this on RC
http://www.floatswitches.net/moldaholder.html

[Frag Hag]

Suh-weet!

Randy, thanks for the link.

[jollopee]

that is a pretty neat deal. Got it saved now so when I have problems or have a bright idea brewing in my grape and need that one special part Ill be able to find it

Todd